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It’s clear that Jesus wants us to “turn the other cheek” and not retaliate. Matthew 5:38-40 makes that clear.
However, what if someone does (or threatens to do) something bad to us, when the bad act will also harm others?
For example, what if someone harms us and the harm will also hurt our family and friends? For example (and this is just an example) what if someone intentionally rams into our car and damages it so that we can’t use it to take our children to school or our colleagues to work? Does “turn the other cheek” apply?
It’s clear that Jesus wants us to “turn the other cheek” and not retaliate. Matthew 5:38-40 makes that clear.
However, what if someone does (or threatens to do) something bad to us, when the bad act will also harm others?
For example, what if someone harms us and the harm will also hurt our family and friends? For example (and this is just an example) what if someone intentionally rams into our car and damages it so that we can’t use it to take our children to school or our colleagues to work? Does “turn the other cheek” apply?
Thanks.
Jesus didn't prohibit self defense. As I recall, that bit about turning the other cheek had to do with the fact that a back handed slap to the cheek was considered an insult, and so instead of returning the insult, turn the other cheek. Jesus did not say to let someone physically harm you. Self defense and defense of others is absolutely legitimate.
However, regarding your example of someone intentionally ramming your car, unless he is about to physically harm you or your children or colleagues, you don't have the right to physically assault him.
It’s clear that Jesus wants us to “turn the other cheek” and not retaliate. Matthew 5:38-40 makes that clear.
However, what if someone does (or threatens to do) something bad to us, when the bad act will also harm others?
For example, what if someone harms us and the harm will also hurt our family and friends? For example (and this is just an example) what if someone intentionally rams into our car and damages it so that we can’t use it to take our children to school or our colleagues to work? Does “turn the other cheek” apply?
Thanks.
Jesus didn't turn the other cheek when the officer struck Him at His trial. John 18:22-23. But he did forgive him.
Jesus was speaking figuratively, meaning to forgive, not that you don't seek restitution for damages.
In Matt. 5:39 Jesus said, "But I say unto you, that you resist not evil...., then He goes on in the next 3 verses giving examples of how not to resist evil.
He is telling us not to reward evil with evil, but to do things properly as would please the Father. That is not easy to do at times and projects the fulfilling of the second commandment, love your neighbor as yourself, even when he does you wrong.
Jesus didn't turn the other cheek when the officer struck Him at His trial. John 18:22-23. But he did forgive him.
Jesus was speaking figuratively, meaning to forgive, not that you don't seek restitution for damages.
In Matt. 5:39 Jesus said, "But I say unto you, that you resist not evil...., then He goes on in the next 3 verses giving examples of how not to resist evil.
He is telling us not to reward evil with evil, but to do things properly as would please the Father. That is not easy to do at times and projects the fulfilling of the second commandment, love your neighbor as yourself, even when he does you wrong.
Thanks and agreed. What if someone does you wrong and that wrong leads to harm to another person?
For example, what if someone steals $10,000 that you had and that you were just about to give to your church’s homeless ministry?
Thanks and agreed. What if someone does you wrong and that wrong leads to harm to another person?
For example, what if someone steals $10,000 that you had and that you were just about to give to your church’s homeless ministry?
I would call my lawyer and do the right thing, meaning being fair and forgiving in the process, but looking for restitution.
The Lord doesn't expect us to be a sponge for crooks and the lazy, but to be fair, taking no more than we are owed. And then above all, forgive that person that it doesn't interfere with your relationship with Him. Just as He has forgiven you!
Rom 12:19, Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Rom 12:20, Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
Rom 12:21, Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Rom 12:19, Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Rom 12:20, Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
Rom 12:21, Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
If you are slapped across the cheek with the backside of the hand.
You are to give that person - something to eat and drink?
If you are slapped across the cheek with the backside of the hand.
You are to give that person - something to eat and drink?
Exactly. After all the “son of man came eating and drinking and they say he is a drunkard and a friend of sinners.” (Jesus)
I get slapped across the cheek here all the time and continue to give food and drink
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